Gretchen Bleiler Interview

What other Warren Miller Films have you been in?I had a small shout out in the movie Journey and maybe Off The Grid too.

Where is your favorite place to ride? Why?Wherever I go around the world, I find myself comparing it to Aspen/Snowmass. It's a very special place.

What is it -- passion or profession? How did you become a pro snowboarder?It's a passion that's become a profession. I got here with a lot of hard work and determination. You've got to work hard to get paid to do what you love!

Do you think it is difficult being a female Pro? What is it like trying to make a mark in this industry as a woman?It's a great time in women's snowboarding both for the amazing progression of the women and the support of the companies who make up this industry. If you watch a halfpipe contest now or check out one of the all female snowboard flicks, you'll see that the girls these days are pushing it further than ever before. Because of this we're getting more attention in the media, more women are snowboarding and watching snowboarding which leads to company's designing more women's specific products. I'm fortunate enough to work with Oakley who right now is leading a huge women's initiative and just this past season developed the first goggle designed specifically for a woman. I also ride for K2 snowboarding, who's developed an amazing tool, the K2 Women's Alliance. This team of girls from all different ages, environments and walks of life comes together to help with the design and function of all of the women's products. Because of the success of these products, K2's women's line gets bigger and bigger every year. I'd say it's a very exciting time in women's snowboarding.

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iPod or CDs? What do you rock when you're getting pumped for a day on the mountain?I rock a Napster MP3 player. Music is vital!

Is there anything else you would like to share?This past year I worked with Oakley to develop "The Gretchen Bleiler Collection." The collection includes everything from technical outerwear, under layers, accessories, sunglasses, and goggles. The collection will be in stores Fall 2008, but keep an eye out this winter, I'll be wearing the line all season, it's gonna be HOT!

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